Akron, Ohio – Signet Jewelers has announced a new donation commitment to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
The jewellery giant and the charity are also celebrating 25 years of partnership, during which Signet has raised $100 million for the children’s hospital and now plans to raise an additional $100 million.
“We are honoured to support the life-saving research and care that St. Jude provides to patients every day,” said Virginia C. Drosos, CEO of Signet Jewelers.
Treatments developed at St. Jude have helped increase the overall childhood cancer survival rate from 20 percent to more than 80 percent in the United States, she said.
“Our next $100 million commitment will help increase that even further and also help improve survival rates around the world, where they are much lower. We won’t stop fighting for a world where no child dies at the start of life.
The additional funds will also support patient follow-up through ongoing research at the After Completion of Therapy Clinic and the St. Jude LIFE Study Program, which is investigating ways to increase survival and help cancer survivors thrive.
Signet Jewelers has sponsored the St. Jude Solid Tumor Clinic, the second floor of the Patient Care Center, and the Kay Research and Care Center, a space for research, education, collaboration, care and treatment.
There is also the Kay Kafe, where patient families and St. Jude staff can socialize.
“The longstanding commitment and incredible generosity of Signet, its employees and customers is a moving expression of love and an incredible testament to the company’s purpose-driven culture,” said Richard C. Shadyac Jr., president and CEO of ALSAC, the fundraising and awareness organization for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
Signet will raise money for the charity throughout the year, including donating proceeds from the annual sale of plush puppies and bears in its stores.
The retailer also encourages customers to donate in-store and online. Funds are also raised through corporate support, such as the St. Jude Memphis Marathon Weekend.
